Lomustine
Lomustine (pronounced low-mus-teen) is a chemotherapy drug that is given as a treatment for some types of cancer. This information describes lomustine, how it is given and some of its possible side effects. It should ideally be read with our general information about chemotherapy and about your type of cancer, which give further information and advice.
If you have any further questions you can ask your doctor or nurse at the hospital where you are having your treatment, or speak to one of our cancer support service nurses.
- What lomustine looks like
- How it is given
- Possible side effects
- Less common side effects
- Additional information
- Things to remember about lomustine capsules
What lomustine looks like
Lomustine is available as blue and clear capsules of 40mg.
How it is given
The capsules should be swallowed whole with a large glass of water. Your doctor or nurse will explain exactly when you should take them.
Possible side effects
Each person's reaction to chemotherapy is different. Some people have very few side effects, while others may experience more. The side effects described in this information will not affect everyone who is given lomustine and may be different if you are having more than one chemotherapy drug.
We have outlined the most common and less common side effects, so that you can be aware of them if they occur. However, we have not included those that are very rare and therefore extremely unlikely to affect you. If you notice any effects which you think may be due to the drug, but are not listed in this information, please discuss them with your doctor or chemotherapy nurse.
Nausea (feeling sick) and vomiting If you do feel sick it may begin from a few hours after the treatment is given and can last for up to 2–3 days. Your doctor can now prescribe very effective anti-sickness (anti-emetic) drugs to prevent or greatly reduce nausea and vomiting. If the sickness is not controlled, or continues, tell your doctor, who can prescribe other anti-sickness drugs that may be more effective.
Lowered resistance to infection Lomustine can reduce the production of white blood cells by the bone marrow, making you more prone to infection. This effect can begin three weeks after treatment has been given and your resistance to infection usually reaches its lowest point four to six weeks after chemotherapy. Your blood cells will then increase steadily and will usually have returned to normal before your next cycle of chemotherapy is due.
Contact your doctor or the hospital straightaway if:
- Your temperature goes above 38ºC (100.5ºF)
- You suddenly feel unwell (even with a normal temperature)
You will have a blood test before having more chemotherapy, to make sure that your cells have recovered. Occasionally it may be necessary to delay your treatment if the number of blood cells (the blood count) is still low.
Bruising or bleeding Lomustine can reduce the production of platelets (which help the blood to clot). Let your doctor know if you have any unexplained bruising or bleeding, such as nosebleeds, blood spots or rashes on the skin, and bleeding gums.
Anaemia (low number of red blood cells) While having treatment with lomustine you may become anaemic. This may make you feel tired and breathless. Let your doctor or nurse know if these are a problem.
Tiredness and feeling weak It is important to allow yourself plenty of time to rest.
Less common side effects
Sore mouth and ulcers Your mouth may become sore or you may notice small ulcers during this treatment. Drinking plenty of fluids and cleaning your teeth regularly and gently with a soft toothbrush can help to reduce the risk of this happening. Tell your nurse or doctor if you do have any of these problems, as special mouthwashes and medicine to prevent or clear any mouth infection can be prescribed.
Taste changes You may notice that your food tastes different. Normal taste will usually come back after the treatment finishes.
Diarrhoea This can usually be easily controlled with medicine, but tell your doctor if it is severe or if it continues. It is important to drink plenty of fluids if you have diarrhoea.
Loss of appetite A dietitian or specialist nurse at your hospital can give advice and tips on boosting appetite, coping with eating difficulties and maintaining weight.
Your liver may be temporarily affected Lomustine may cause changes in the way that your liver works, though your liver will return to normal when the treatment is finished. This is very unlikely to cause you any harm, but your doctor will monitor this carefully. Samples of your blood will be taken from time to time to check your liver is working properly.
Hair loss This is rare. If it happens, it usually begins about 3–4 weeks after starting treatment, although it may occur earlier. Hair may be lost completely or may just thin. You may also have thinning and loss of eyelashes, eyebrows and other body hair. Hair loss is temporary and your hair will regrow once the treatment ends.
Changes to the lungs Lomustine may cause some changes to the lung tissue. Tell your doctor if you notice any coughing or breathlessness.
Eyesight Lomustine may affect your eyesight, however this is very rare. Let your doctor know if you notice any change in your vision.
Additional information
Other medicines Some medicines may be harmful to take when you are having chemotherapy. Let your doctor know about any medications you are taking, including non-prescribed drugs such as complementary therapies and herbal drugs.
Fertility Your ability to become pregnant or father a child may be affected by taking this drug. It is important to discuss fertility with your doctor before starting treatment.
Contraception It is not advisable to become pregnant or father a child while taking lomustine as it may harm the developing foetus. It is essential to use effective contraception whilst taking this drug, and for at least a few months afterwards. Again, discuss this with your doctor.
Things to remember about lomustine capsules
- Store the capsules in a cool, dry place
- Keep the capsules in a safe place where children cannot reach them, as lomustine could harm them
- It is important to take your capsules at the right times. You must take them as directed by your doctor
- If your doctor decides to stop the treatment, return any remaining capsules to the pharmacist. Do not flush them down the toilet or throw them away
- If you forget to take a capsule do not take a double dose. Tell your doctor and keep to your regular dose schedule.
